Straight answers from a working plumber: what to fix yourself, when to call, and how to avoid expensive surprises.






Slowly turn the shut-off valve on the wall behind the toilet (turn it clockwise). For a simple clog, try a plunger before calling us.
Shut off the main water valve to your home right away, then call. Every minute counts against water damage.
Turn off the shut-off valves under the sink. It won’t fix the leak, but it stops the water until a plumber arrives.
During a remodel, take pictures of open walls, floors and ceilings so you always know where the pipes and wires run.
Fix running toilets (usually a flapper or fill valve), keep your water heater around 120°F, and replace old shower heads with efficient ones.
Before a cold snap, insulate exposed pipes, disconnect garden hoses, and cover outdoor faucets.
Talk to the owner directly. Most calls get same-day service.